DELANO THOMAS

His only job is to entertain and for over 15 years Delano Thomas has been doing just that. One of the main persons behind the success of the annual party weekend, Appleton Temptation Isle, he has been a part of that weekend planning team from its inception.

Thomas rose to prominence through his alliance with Renaissance Disco and goes by the name DJ Delano. While playing out at various events and functions, he got the brilliant idea to get into the party-planning venture. "I got started by deejaying at parties and saw it as fun and a next way to build Renaissance Disco."

He then joined forces with the rest of the ATI crew where he is now responsible for the party ATI Tempted All-white Glow. This concept, he said, was based on the disco's annual party held in Kingston. "Based on our Renaissance Xmas Eve All-white Party and the demand and attendance, we decided to take it to Negril with a twist of glow."

Being a part of ATI has proved successful for Thomas and he says it is no secret why ATI has been doing so well over the years. "ATI events are parties that people know and love. Being the original Negril party weekend, we have a proven track record. We go all out in decor and service to please our patrons."

As for his most memorable time at ATI, it was a very easy pick for him. "When Renaissance dropped the Left Side ATI dub, it mash up the place."

The selector/party promoter does not see himself away from the entertainment picture, at least not for another decade. "I will still be staging parties and a new week of festivities."

Definitely an entrepreneur and always seeking innovative ways to entertain, Thomas noted that it isn't always smooth sailing, and meeting funding needs and getting sponsors of events to sign off on time are some of the challengesorganisers and promoters of events will encounter.

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com